Kelly: I'm not worried about competition at Liverpool

By Matt Davis

The Reds' defender is looking to bounce back from injury which has kept him out of action since September, and has revealed he is excited to compete for a starting place

Liverpool defender Martin Kelly has vowed to fight for his place in the starting XI when he recovers fully from a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee which has kept him out of action since September.

The 22-year-old made 20 appearances for Liverpool in all competitions last season, but has only featured seven times under new boss Brendan Rodgers.

With the right-back remaining on the sidelines, Andre Wisdom and Glen Johnson have both contesting the starting position - a tussle Kelly is relishing the opportunity of being involved in.

"It's always good at any club to have competition for places," he told Liverpool's official website. "Whether you are looking to take someone's place, or you are looking behind at someone who is pushing for yours, it's always a great thing to have. It helps you progress as a player.

"At Liverpool, the competition is at its highest because it is a top club. But I can learn from everyone in the team, not just the defenders."

He continued: "Once I'm fit, if I just keep working and stay injury free, my game can progress really well and I can be dangerous as a full-back and a centre-back."

With Jamie Carragher retiring at the end of the season, Kelly could potentially fit into a new role as a centre-back. However, the young England international is aware that Carragher's experience will be a huge loss to the club.

"He's been fantastic for the club and for me personally as a player," said Kelly. "Pretty much every time I have played he has been there alongside me. He has helped me through each game.

"I'll be really sad when he goes because there is so much more there for me to learn from Jamie. I'm sure he'll be around the club anyway, so he'll always be able to offer that experience.

"But he is a great player, a great person and I'll be very sad to see him retire."